Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V: A Psychedelic Tribute to a Guitar Legend

When it comes to legendary guitarists, few names resonate as powerfully as Jimi Hendrix. Known for his unparalleled innovation and electrifying performances, Hendrix took the guitar to places no one had ever imagined. His legacy lives on not only through his music but also through the iconic instruments he played. Among these, the “Love Drops” Flying V holds a special place, and Epiphone’s new tribute to this psychedelic masterpiece brings Hendrix’s spirit back to life in a tangible form.

A Bit of History: The Story Behind the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V

The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is not just another signature model; it’s a recreation of one of the most visually striking guitars ever associated with the rock legend. Originally a sunburst Flying V, Hendrix’s guitar was later refinished in ebony before the man himself hand-painted it with vibrant, psychedelic graphics. This guitar became one of Hendrix’s go-to instruments during the late 1960s, particularly during the recording of Electric Ladyland and various live performances.

While the original guitar passed through several hands and underwent changes, Epiphone has partnered with Gibson Custom and the Hendrix family to recreate this legendary instrument, making it available to guitar enthusiasts and Hendrix fans alike.

Design and Build Quality: A Faithful Recreation

Epiphone has gone to great lengths to ensure that the Jimi Hendrix Flying V is a faithful tribute to the original. The guitar features a solid mahogany body and a one-piece mahogany neck, providing the rich, resonant tone that Flying Vs are known for. The neck sports a rounded C-profile, which is comfortable for both chord work and soloing, ensuring that players of all styles can appreciate its playability.

The laurel fingerboard with mother-of-pearl dot inlays and 22 medium jumbo frets is both beautiful and functional, allowing for smooth playability across the entire neck. The long neck heel joint adds stability, making this guitar a reliable choice for gigging musicians.

But the real star of the show is the guitar’s finish. Epiphone has meticulously recreated the psychedelic graphics that Hendrix painted on the original. The vibrant colors and intricate designs make this guitar not just an instrument but a piece of art. Whether you’re a collector or a performer, the visual appeal of the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is undeniable.

Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V: Electronics and Hardware

When it comes to sound, the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V doesn’t disappoint. It’s equipped with a pair of Gibson Custombucker humbucker pickups, which are designed to deliver the classic PAF tone that Hendrix himself would have loved. These pickups are wired to CTS potentiometers and a Mallory tone capacitor, ensuring that the guitar’s electronics are as high-quality as its construction.

The three-way selector switch allows you to access a range of tones, from warm, smooth neck pickup sounds to biting, aggressive bridge pickup tones. The Master Tone control provides additional shaping capabilities, making it easy to dial in the perfect sound for any genre.

The hardware is equally impressive. The Maestro Short Vibrola tailpiece is a nod to the original design and provides smooth, reliable tremolo action. The LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge and Epiphone Deluxe tuners ensure that the guitar stays in tune, even during heavy use.

Playing Experience: Channeling Hendrix’s Spirit

Out of the box, the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is set up to Hendrix’s preferred tuning—E flat. This small touch immediately connects the player with the legendary guitarist’s style. The guitar is remarkably playable, with a setup that feels solid and responsive.

The combination of the rounded C-profile neck and the medium jumbo frets allows for effortless bending and fast playing. Whether you’re playing blues, rock, or anything in between, the guitar’s tone is rich and versatile, capturing the essence of Hendrix’s sound.

One of the highlights of playing this guitar is the way it handles effects. Whether you’re using a fuzz pedal, like the classic Fuzz Face Hendrix was known for, or a Univibe for those swirling, psychedelic sounds, the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V responds beautifully. The Custombucker pickups capture every nuance of your playing, from delicate fingerpicking to full-on rock power chords.

Watch the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix “Love Drops” Flying V in Action

To truly appreciate the sound and feel of the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix “Love Drops” Flying V, check out this video review and demo. The video offers a comprehensive look at the guitar’s features and performance, including clean and distorted tones, giving you an authentic feel for what this iconic instrument can do. The guitarist runs through various playing styles, showcasing the versatility of the Custombucker pickups and the playability of the Flying V. From smooth bluesy riffs to Hendrix-inspired rock, the video highlights the guitar’s ability to handle a range of tones with ease. You’ll also get a close-up view of the guitar’s unique “Love Drops” design, capturing the essence of Hendrix’s psychedelic era.

Be sure to watch to see if this guitar matches your style and sound preferences. It’s a great way to experience the guitar before making a purchase!

Check out the Jimi Hendrix Flying V here!

Pros and Cons: The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V

Pros:

• Authentic Design: The recreation of Hendrix’s hand-painted psychedelic graphics is a visual treat and a fitting tribute to the original.
• High-Quality Components: From the Gibson Custombucker pickups to the Maestro Short Vibrola tailpiece, this guitar is built with top-notch materials.
• Versatile Tone: The guitar offers a wide range of tones, making it suitable for various genres.
• Playability: The rounded C neck profile and medium jumbo frets make for a comfortable playing experience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Cons:

• Seating Challenge: As with most Flying Vs, playing while seated can be awkward due to the guitar’s shape.
• Price Point: At $1,499, it’s an investment, though it’s well worth it for fans of Hendrix and those seeking a high-quality instrument.

Guitar Specs

The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V via Get My Guitar

If you’re ready to experience the iconic sound and stunning design of the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V, you can purchase it directly from our Get My Guitar store! This limited-edition guitar is a must-have for any Hendrix fan or serious guitarist looking for a piece of history.

The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is priced at $1,499 and comes with an Epiphone hardshell case featuring Authentic Hendrix and Inspired by Gibson Custom logos.

Click the link below to order now and be one step closer to owning this incredible tribute to Jimi Hendrix.

FAQ: Epiphone Jimi Hendrix “Love Drops” Flying V

Q: What makes the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V special?
A: The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix “Love Drops” Flying V is a recreation of Jimi Hendrix’s iconic hand-painted Flying V guitar, which he extensively used from 1967 to 1969. The guitar features a mahogany body and neck, Custombucker pickups, and Hendrix’s signature psychedelic graphics, making it both a tribute to Hendrix’s legacy and a high-quality instrument.

Q: How does the “Love Drops” design compare to the original Hendrix guitar?
A: The “Love Drops” design is a faithful recreation of the hand-painted psychedelic graphics that Hendrix originally applied to his guitar. While the original guitar has undergone changes over the years, Epiphone’s version replicates the vibrant and iconic artwork that Hendrix used, preserving the unique aesthetic that made the guitar famous.

Q: What type of pickups are used in the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V?
A: The guitar is equipped with Gibson Custombucker humbucker pickups. These pickups are known for their vintage tone and clarity, providing the rich, warm sound that is ideal for rock and blues, and capturing the essence of Hendrix’s sound.

Q: Is the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V suitable for beginners?
A: While the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is a high-quality instrument that appeals to collectors and experienced players, it can also be suitable for beginners who are serious about learning guitar and have an appreciation for Hendrix’s music. The guitar’s playability and sound quality make it a great choice for players at various skill levels.

Q: What is included with the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V?
A: The guitar comes with an Epiphone hardshell case that features Authentic Hendrix and Inspired by Gibson Custom logos. This case not only protects the guitar but also adds a collectible value to the instrument.

Q: Is this guitar available for left-handed players?
A: Yes, the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is available in both right-hand and left-hand configurations, making it accessible to a wider range of players.

Q: What is the price of the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V?
A: The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix “Love Drops” Flying V is priced at $1,499. However, prices may vary depending on the retailer and location.

Final Thoughts: A Tribute Worth Owning

The Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V is more than just a guitar; it’s a tribute to one of the most influential musicians of all time. With its meticulously recreated “Love Drops” design, mahogany body, and Gibson Custombucker pickups, this Flying V offers both visual appeal and exceptional sound quality. Whether you’re a die-hard Hendrix fan, a collector, or simply a guitarist looking for an instrument that combines historical significance with modern playability, this Flying V is a fantastic choice.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix Flying V! Whether you’re a longtime Hendrix fan or new to his music, what do you think about this tribute guitar? Do you have a favorite Hendrix guitar solo that you’d love to play on this Flying V? Share your experiences, thoughts, and any Hendrix-inspired riffs in the comments below. Let’s keep the spirit of Jimi alive together! And don’t forget to check out our Guitar Blog for more in-depth reviews, tips, and all things guitar. Your input is what makes our community thrive!